Rath Yatra Tragedy Sparks Political Fury in Odisha

The Congress party demands the resignation of Odisha's Chief Minister and a judicial inquiry following a deadly stampede during the Rath Yatra in Puri. Allegations of mismanagement and VIP favoritism overshadow the ancient festival, with three deaths and numerous injuries igniting political tensions.


Devdiscourse News Desk | New Delhi | Updated: 30-06-2025 16:00 IST | Created: 30-06-2025 16:00 IST
Rath Yatra Tragedy Sparks Political Fury in Odisha
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A political storm has erupted in Odisha following a tragic stampede at the Rath Yatra festival in Puri, with the Congress demanding the resignation of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Manjhi and his deputy. The party has also called for a judicial inquiry into the incident that claimed three lives.

The opposition has accused the BJP-led state government of prioritizing billionaire interests over the sanctity of the centuries-old festival, alleging that the event was turned into a private spectacle. The Congress claims this negligence has undermined the cultural pride of Odisha.

Despite the gravity of the situation, the state government has yet to respond to these allegations. The Congress also suggested nationwide protocols for crowd management to prevent such tragedies in the future.

(With inputs from agencies.)

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